Advanced Sensor Technology Helps in Early Detection of H5N1
A groundbreaking biosensor capable of detecting airborne H5N1 avian influenza in under five minutes has been developed by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis. This advancement provides a rapid detection method for farmers and public health officials to monitor potential outbreaks in real time.
The research team, led by Professor Rajan Chakrabarty, designed the biosensor using electrochemical capacitive biosensors to enhance speed and sensitivity. “This biosensor is the first of its kind,” said Chakrabarty, emphasizing the importance of quick virus detection in preventing outbreaks. Traditional testing methods can take over ten hours, delaying necessary responses.
The device is about the size of a desktop printer and can be placed near farm ventilation systems. It uses an integrated sampling-sensing unit that captures airborne virus particles and sends fluid samples to the biosensor for analysis every five minutes. Scientists optimized the sensor using graphene oxide and Prussian blue nanocrystals, significantly improving its sensitivity and stability.
Another key advantage of the biosensor is its ability to store samples for further analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. The sensor also provides real-time virus concentration levels, helping farm operators understand when H5N1 levels reach dangerous thresholds.